[AlbinoBlacMan]

I know most, if not all headphone amps come with a pre-amp (or at least most of the entry level stuff seems to), but I'm looking at one for setting up a speaker system. Any ideas for a decently priced preamp (hopefully sub $300).
 
Also, I'm wondering if anyone has recommendations for learning to solder. Any especially good online tutorials? And any recommendations for practicing my soldering skills before I start a project?
 
Thanks in advance,
Chris

 

[Oberst Oswald]

Bottlehead Foreplay III
 
http://www.bottlehead.com/store.php?crn=220&rn=430&action=show_detail

 

[francisdemarte]

Also the Aikido premp: http://glass-ware.stores.yahoo.net/listheam.html
 
For soldering tutorial, i just do a search on youtube.
 

 

[Bones13]

Tutorials
 
http://www.tangentsoft.com/elec/movies/
 
Bottlehead gear is great, if it fits your budget.  Hard to beat the sound without spending a lot more, and you can always upgrade your Bottlehead kit with boutique parts when the budget allows.
 
Have a look around at diyaudio.com too for more ideas.

 

[Uncle Erik]

Check out the Eric Barbour "Brute Force" headphone amp/preamp at HeadWize. You can get the parts for $300 or less.

 

[francisdemarte]

I just found this site and the SP8 tube pre looks great! http://www.tubes4hifi.com/pre11.htm
 
+ you can buy it as a kit with all parts
+ circuit includes a 40db phono pre
 
Assembly http://www.tubes4hifi.com/SP8-AM1.htm